Aaron Judge, the two-time Most Valuable Player for the New York Yankees, will lead Team USA as captain in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. The star slugger expressed immense pride in accepting this role, stating his eagerness to represent the United States against international competition.
Team USA manager Mark DeRosa revealed that he sought and received approval from former captain Mike Trout before formally offering the position to Judge. Trout’s enthusiastic response was simple: “He’s the one.”
Judge fondly recalled witnessing Trout’s impactful moment during the previous World Baseball Classic finals, where the veteran player proudly waved the American flag as he entered the field.
The Yankees captain acknowledged the significance of this opportunity and dedicated his potential participation to those serving in the armed forces. During a press conference at Yankee Stadium, Judge stated:
“To hear that praise from you, hear the praise from Trouty, it’s something special. Getting the chance to represent our country…just thinking about all the brave men and women who have fought for this country and laid their lives down for us to get a chance to go out here, especially me, go out here and play a game. It’s a pretty humbling experience.”
He concluded by saying, “Happy to represent the U.S. and happy to be your captain.”
Judge had previously expressed his desire to compete for Team USA; however, circumstances in 2023 prevented him from participating. Following a recent injury suffered by Edwin Diaz of Team Puerto Rico during a celebration, Judge opted to prioritize his health while navigating free agency.
After securing a substantial nine-year, $360 million contract extension with the Yankees, and reaffirming his position as team captain, Judge anticipated the tournament’s return in 2026. Manager DeRosa immediately identified him as the ideal candidate for captaincy.
- “I wanted him to be the captain,” DeRosa told reporters. “I felt like he’s deserving of it. I watched Mike Trout walk out against Japan holding the flag; I want [Judge] to be that guy.”
Yankees manager Aaron Boone echoed this sentiment, adding, “In a lot of ways, he’s certainly one of the face of baseball. Such a magnetic personality that people gravitate to, that people around the game love and respect. I think he’ll be great.”
While Judge’s presence guarantees strong leadership, the full Team USA roster will not be finalized until early next year.
It is expected that his commitment will inspire other top American players to express their eagerness for consideration when DeRosa builds his team for 2026.
